Chewy Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to create a sling for removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and the ½ cup of peanut butter until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the mashed banana using a spatula until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
6. Gradually add the dry oat mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or fold by hand until just incorporated. The dough should be thick.
7. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
8. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Use your hands or a lightly oiled spatula to press the dough evenly into the base.
9. If using the optional topping, microwave the remaining ¼ cup of peanut butter until slightly runny, then drizzle haphazardly over the top of the bar mixture. Gently swirl into the batter with a knife if desired.
10. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centre appears set.
11. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack (a minimum of 1 hour is essential) before using the parchment sling to lift them out and slice into 16 squares.